BELLVILLE — The Mount Gilead State Highway Patrol Post is investigating a fatal crash that resulted in the death of 20-year-old police officer Monday morning.
Summer R. Kennard, 20, was driving eastbound on U.S. Route 42, when she drove off the right side of the roadway, according to a media release from the Ohio State Highway Patrol.
Kennard, who was driving a 2010 Toyota RAV4, overcorrected and traveled left of center. Her vehicle was then struck by a 2013 Ford F-150 operated by Ricky Smalley, 63, of Galion.
Kennard and Smalley were transported by Morrow County EMS to Morrow County Hospital. Smalley sustained minor injuries.
Both drivers were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the crash. Alcohol and drugs are not suspected factors in the crash.
Kennard served as a part-time officer at the Bellville Police Department and a part-time officer at the Butler Police Department.
Kennard joined the Bellville Police Department in July 2024. A representative from the department said Kennard was on her way to work at the time of the crash.
“On Feb. 3, 2025 this department lost an outstanding officer and a wonderful person that was a great asset to the Clear Fork Valley,” Chief Jon Fletcher said in a statement.
“This officer had a bright future ahead of her in the law enforcement field. Our community lost an exceptional person that we will miss. We extend our deepest sympathy to her family and friends.”
In a written statement, Butler Police Chief Eric Winbigler said Kennard would be “missed beyond words.”
“The impact she left on the Valley will be remembered for years,” Winbigler said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and the rest of the law enforcement community that worked with her.”